Record snowfall, 1979

Record snowfall, 1979

Tribune photo byMichael Budrys

During the winter of 1978-79, a record 89.7 inches of snow blanketed the city and set up Mayor Michael Bilandic for defeat. Streets were not plowed, garbage was not collected, and mass transit was staggered by the snow. By Election Day voters were ready to dump Bilandic, making way for Jane Byrne, Chicago's first female mayor.

During the winter of 1978-79, a record 89.7 inches of snow blanketed the city and set up Mayor Michael Bilandic for defeat. Streets were not plowed, garbage was not collected, and mass transit was staggered by the snow. By Election Day voters were ready to dump Bilandic, making way for Jane Byrne, Chicago's first female mayor. (Tribune photo byMichael Budrys)

During the winter of 1978-79, a record 89.7 inches of snow blanketed the city and set up Mayor Michael Bilandic for defeat. Streets were not plowed, garbage was not collected, and mass transit was staggered by the snow. By Election Day voters were ready to dump Bilandic, making way for Jane Byrne, Chicago's first female mayor.